Patmos
Patmos is a small, rocky island in the Aegean Sea that functioned as a remote penal colony under Roman rule in the first century. According to Revelation 1:9, the apostle John was exiled there because of his testimony about Jesus, most likely during the reign of Emperor Domitian. While on the island, John received a series of visions from the risen Christ that he recorded as the Book of Revelation, the final book of the New Testament. Its significance lies in preserving these apocalyptic messages about the church, judgment, and Godโs ultimate victory, which continue to shape Christian eschatology and hope.
Details
- Region
- Asia Minor
- Modern Location
- Patmos island, Dodecanese, Greece
Journey Paths
Key Passages
John's Vision
Revelation 1:9-20
Exiled to this rocky island, John receives the Bible's final revelation - God transforms political punishment into prophetic privilege, giving the church its vision of the future.
9 John, who also am your brother, and companion in tribulation, and in the kingdom and patience of Jesus Christ, was in the isle that is called Patmos, for the word of God, and for the testimony of Jesus Christ.
Did You Know?
Patmos is a tiny island only 10 miles long and 6 miles wide.
John was exiled here during Emperor Domitian's persecution around AD 95.
The cave where John reportedly received the Revelation is still a pilgrimage site today.